THE PROBLEM
Nematodes are a widespread pest in tomato-growing areas, especially in sandy, coarse-textured soils commonly found in California and Florida. The two most problematic species for tomatoes are Meloidogyne incognita (Southern root-knot nematode) and Meloidogyne javanica (Javanese root-knot nematode). These pests cause above-ground symptoms, such as stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting, particularly under water stress. Underground, they create distinct galls on tomato roots, which hamper the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients and water, leading to reduced fruit size and reduced marketable yields. Detection can be difficult, with some tomato varieties showing minimal outward signs even while sustaining heavy damage underground.
COMMON PESTS
TELONE™ SUPPRESSES:
- Guava Root-knot (Meloidogyne enterolobi)
- Southern Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita)
- Javanese Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne javanica)
- Lesion Nematode (Pratylenchus penetrans)
- Stubby Root Nematode (Trichodorus spp.)
- Wireworms
In addition to nematodes, using TELONE™ in combination with chloropicrin helps manage several soil-borne diseases affecting tomatoes, including:
- Verticillium Wilt (Verticillium dahliae)
- Fusarium Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum)
- Southern Blight (Sclerotium rolfsii)
- Rhizoctonia (Rhizoctonia solani)
THE SOLUTION
Nematodes are difficult to manage due to their ability to spread and persist in the soil. The most effective product for controlling nematodes in tomato production is TELONE™ soil fumigant. There is no alternative product on the market that offers the same efficacy. TELONE™ manages nematodes within the root zone, helping growers prepare their soil before planting.
TELONE™ not only controls nematodes but also promotes healthier root development in tomatoes, creating a protective zone around the roots in the critical first 6 to 8 weeks of growth. This protection allows for a strong, extensive root system, reducing the impact of nematodes and soil-borne diseases. The result is higher-yielding, better-quality tomatoes, leading to increased marketable yields and improved grower returns.
BENEFITS
Pre-plant soil treatment with TELONE™ or a TELONE™-chloropicrin blend reduces soil-borne diseases by controlling nematode populations and enhancing soil health. It also improves beneficial soil microorganisms, which leads to:- Enhanced tomato crop quality
- Shorter rotation periods
- Overall reduced inputs (less water, fertilizer, and pesticides)
- Improved soil health
- No residuals on harvested tomatoes
Application Method:
TELONE™ and chloropicrin blends can be applied separately or pre-blended, offering flexibility in application methods. If tomatoes are grown directly in the ground, TELONE™ can be applied in-row via shank application. For tomatoes grown in greenhouses, TELONE™ can be applied via drip. Consult a TELONE™ specialist to determine the best treatment for your tomato crops.
The Results
Comparison Photo: On the left tomatoes planted in untreated soil. On the right planted in soil prepped with TELONE™ before planting.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
- University of Florida Extension – Nematode Resistance: A Useful Tool for Root-knot Nematode (RKN) Management in Tomato
- University of Florida Extension – Nematode Management in Tomatoes, Peppers, and Eggplant
- Crop Life Foundation – The Importance of Soil Fumigation: California Tomatoes
- UC Riverside/Davis Integrated Pest Management – Tomato Pest Management Guidelines: Root-Knot Nematode
- NC State Extension – Root-Knot Nematode of Tomato
